Aashita Relan is an artist who has built a following with her extraordinary work that explores the past and present of Indian art. She takes us through her fav pieces and how being an architect inspires her art.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
Recently, while shopping for Indian heritage jewelry, the delicate filigree work, the vibrant hues of gemstones, and the age-old techniques that carry centuries of history within their design. I was struck by how these ornate pieces told stories of tradition and grandeur.
“I love the bejewelled headphones, the meenakari enamel, polki diamonds, and kundan gol…they all merge tradition with innovation”
How does being an architect factor into your art?
Architecture taught me to see the world differently; how light falls, how forms interact, and how composition creates meaning, all of which continue to shape my art. The shift to visual art has allowed me to expand my creative vision, combining technical precision with a vibrant exploration of colors, emotions, and culture.
What are 2 of your favourite pieces you’ve made?
My recreation of Raja Ravi Varma’s portrait reimagines his timeless elegance through a modern feminist lens. The subject wears a badge reading “आत्मनिर््भर” (self-sufficient), a bold declaration of independence, while her space buns, adorned with jasmine flowers, merge playful modernity with classic Indian beauty. I love the bejewelled headphones, they merge tradition with innovation. The meenakari enamel, polki diamonds, and kundan gold work pay homage to the craftsmanship of traditional Indian jewelry. At the same time, the concept challenges conventional perceptions of technology, transforming a functional object into a luxurious, artful statement piece.
What is the story you’re trying to tell?
Life is weird, messy, and absurdly beautiful so why take it too seriously? My art is all about breaking the rules, having fun, and showing that it’s okay to be different but it’s also a powerful tool for change. Ultimately, it’s about reimagining conversations, and leaving people with something to think about long after they’ve seen it.
Did the house you grew up in have aesthetic details that inform your work now?
Growing up, my dad’s love for decorating and collecting artifacts made our home feel like a living gallery of unique, meaningful pieces, especially folk Indian art. My mom encouraged me to create my own art to adorn our walls. That sense of personal expression and beauty became a big part of my identity.
Some of your work is so funny! How important is that?
Humour makes art more accessible, like a bridge between deep concepts and everyday life. It can be witty, quirky, or downright absurd. but that’s the point. It’s a powerful tool that allows me to address deeper themes in a way that feels accessible and engaging, without losing the impact of the message. It keeps things light, fresh, and always a bit surprising. And who doesn’t love a good laugh, right?
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